Moving Scams Prevalent Throughout Industry

Allowing someone you don’t know to drive away with your belongings is among the many stressful aspects of a long-distance move. The stress can be compounded by fraudulent movers who charge significantly more than the amount quoted, have unreasonably long delivery windows, hold items hostage for additional undisclosed fees, and deliver damaged goods.

An in-depth investigative study by Better Business Bureau (BBB) finds that scams are widespread in the moving industry, particularly when it comes to interstate moves. BBB receives an average of 13,000 complaints and negative reviews about movers each year, with many complaints describing how experiences with dishonest moving companies have turned into financial and emotional nightmares.

What Should You Look For When Hiring a Mover

The company has a physical address and not just a Post Office Box
In-person or virtual quotes.
Vehicles with their company’s logo
Require only a small deposit upfront
Accept credit cards
A realistic estimate
Charges based on weight not volume
Check reviews at BBB.org
Use BBB.org or US Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)

Unethical and Illegal Business Practices by Moving Companies

Holding property hostage until the consumer pays more, it is illegal to charge more than 110% of the estimate before delivery.
It is illegal to increase the price after goods are loaded.
Not offering full value replacement liability protection, the standard released value liability protection pays 60 cents per pound, not on the dollar value of an item
Lie about delivery dates, location, and quality of the workers.

Reporting of issues and assistance